The Powerpuff Girls Defenders of Townsville is an action-adventure game that relies on extensive map usage and backtracking. This backtracking is most successful when it’s done with a newly acquired ability. Buttercup, Blosom and Bubbles have been affected by a machine built by their arch nemesis, Mojo Jojo, and have forgotten how to use their powers.*

Buttercup somehow eludes her persuers and must rescue her sisters from the evil Mojo Jojo. She begins the game with only the abilty to walk but soon she will reacquire her powers. Some powers are obtained immediately while others, like your health meter, require collecting a group of similar items. Certain special powers are finite and gathering stars to keep your meter full creates a challenge. In fact, your main attack it will slowly drain your meter; so blast carefully.

Initially the game felt like an action platformer but once you can fly it becomes more of shooter. The enemies become more difficult the further you explore and locating the save rooms becomes a high priority. The music is one area I was not particularly thrilled with but I found the combat and overall exploration quite enjoyable. I was never particularly fond of the show either, so I don’t think it is a prerequisite to playing and appreciating the game. However if you have an intense aversion to The Powerpuff Girls and/or backtracking-exploration games this is not for you.

*Sure, it would have been more succinct to use the “m” word but I wanted a challenge

Recommendation: Buy this game if you don’t mind backtracking and/or The Powerpuff GirlsFull Disclosure: This game was provided to GameEnthus by a PR firm on behalf of the developer/publisher.Genre: exploration/backtracking, action-adventure, shooterDeveloper: RadiangamesPublisher: Cartoon Network GamesPlatforms: Mac, PC, LinuxPrice: $7.99